An appellate court in Illinois ruled Friday that the city of Chicago is not responsible for the deaths of 21 people in a stampede in 2003 at the E2 nightclub. The stampede began after pepper spray was used to break up a fight on the club’s second level. Occupants fled down narrow stairs, and when they were unable to open an exit door, their bodies piled up, causing 21 deaths and dozens of injuries. The families of the victims filed many lawsuits blaming city officials for not abiding by building codes, such as failing to maintain adequate exits and violating occupancy limits. The lawsuits also state that police incorrectly handled rescue efforts. A three-judge panel with Chicago’s 1st District Appellate Court found the city not responsible because their actions were not willful.  Attorneys and victims’ families plan to consider other legal options, such as petitioning Illinois’ highest court. In 2007, a club owner, manager and party promoter were all acquitted of involuntary manslaughter for the 21 deaths. The nightclub owners have already settled many lawsuits filed by victims and their families.

 If you reside in the San Diego area and have been seriously injured, contact the law firm of Estey & Bomberger.